Bernice M. Zolnierek

Bernice M. Zolnierek, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully passed away on November 8, 2025, at Turning Brook AFC. Born on May 8, 1930, in Alpena, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Sophie (Wcisel) Kieliszewski.

Bernice lived a life devoted to her family and community. After dedicating many years to her career at NBD Bank, she retired in 1992, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment. On November 10, 1951, she married the love of her life, Joseph Zolnierek, in a ceremony officiated by Monsignor Gatzke at St. Mary Catholic Church. Their nearly 68 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams until Joseph preceded her in death.

She was a true embodiment of kindness and compassion, described by those who knew her as a caring, loving soul who brought warmth to every interaction. Bernice's interests were simple yet profound; she found joy in baking, sewing, and generously volunteering her time to support various causes. Her dedication to others was evident in her active involvement in her faith community, as she was a proud member and former president of the Rosary Society of All Saints Parish, as well as a long-time member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Auxiliary.

Bernice’s proudest accomplishments were rooted in her family. She is survived by her five children, David (Monica) Zolnierek, Helen (Ray) Suszek, Paul (Sue) Zolnierek, Carol Morsches, and Mark (April) Zolnierek. A doting grandmother, she leaves behind six grandchildren—Andrew Suszek, Matthew (Jennifer) Suszek, Simon (Jessica) Zolnierek, Alicia (Cody) Henriksen, Rachel (Kiegan McNamara) Zolnierek, and Mark (Britni) Morsches—and six great-grandchildren, Aliyah Suszek, Jackson Suszek, Clara Henriksen, Emily Henriksen, James Henriksen, and Hattie Jo Zolnierek, and a sister-in-law, Janet Zolnierek. Additionally, she is remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Bernice's departure leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph A. Zolnierek, a granddaughter, Amanda Morsches, two grandsons, Adam Zolnierek and Ryan Manning, a son in law, Scott Morsches as well as four brothers, Irwin, Arthur, Leonard, and Delmar Kieliszewski, and a nephew, Charles Kieliszewski-Miller,

As we celebrate the life of Bernice M. Zolnierek, let us remember her for her unwavering love, her generous spirit, and the countless lives she touched with her grace and kindness. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.

Family will receive friends for visitation at A.E. Ross Funeral Home on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025 from 2:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with prayer of the rosary at 3pm and parish prayer service at 6pm. Visitation will continue on Monday at St. Anne Catholic Church from 10am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11am with Fr. Emmanuel Finbarr as the celebrant. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to All Saints Catholic School. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family would like to thank the Turning Brook staff for their exceptional care during this difficult time.